- The eSMR Methanol demo plant aims to be fully operational by early 2022.
- The project is supported by the Energy Technology Development and Demonstration Program (EUDP).
- Consortium partners include Aarhus University, Sintex A/S, Blue World Technology ApS, Technical University of Denmark, Energinet A/S, Aalborg University, and PlanEnergi.
- The plant will produce methanol from biogas and other sustainable products.
Project Overview
Haldor Topsoe has begun commissioning its eSMR Methanol demo plant in Foulum, Denmark. The plant aims to validate electrified technology for cost-competitive methanol production from biogas and other sustainable products. The project is supported by the Energy Technology Development and Demonstration Program (EUDP) and developed in collaboration with Aarhus University.
Consortium and Support
The project involves several consortium partners, including Aarhus University, Sintex A/S, Blue World Technology ApS, Technical University of Denmark, Energinet A/S, Aalborg University, and PlanEnergi. The plant is expected to be fully operational by early 2022.
Technological Impact
The eSMR technology is designed to produce synthesis gas (syngas), a crucial component in the production of polymers and chemicals. When using biogas as feedstock, the technology is CO2-neutral, utilizing approximately half the CO2 contained in biogas and green electricity for heating. This innovation aims to transform traditional methanol production into a fully carbon-neutral process.
Research and Development
Located at AU Foulum, part of Aarhus University, the demo plant benefits from the university's extensive research facilities in food and agriculture. The site includes offices, laboratories, animal houses, machine storage, and a biogas plant. The research focuses on advanced technologies to optimize biogas production and improve methods such as pre-treatment and high solid digester technology.
Future Applications
The climate benefits of sustainable methanol extend beyond a single use. It can serve as marine fuel, a gasoline blend, and for various applications in the chemical industry. The eSMR technology also opens possibilities for producing other sustainable products like green hydrogen, green ammonia, and electro-fuels (eFuels).
